NewzIntel.com

Category: Gun Control

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Aquatic products controls maintained

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today reiterated that the import of aquatic products from 10 higher-risk Japanese prefectures has been banned since August 24, 2023, adding that a public announcement will be made if there is any adjustment to the policy.

     

    The statement came in response to media enquiries on the relaxation of import control measures on Japanese food products by the Mainland.

     

    The General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China yesterday issued a “Notice on Conditional Resumption of the Import of Aquatic Products from Certain Regions in Japan”, announcing that imports of some aquatic products of Japanese origin – except for those from 10 specified prefectures – will resume with immediate effect.

     

    According to the notice, imports must comply with relevant national laws, regulations and food safety standards, and the Japanese authorities must effectively discharge their official regulatory responsibilities.

     

    In its statement, the HKSAR Government said imports of aquatic products from Tokyo, Fukushima, Chiba, Tochigi, Ibaraki, Gunma, Miyagi, Niigata, Nagano and Saitama have been banned since August 24, 2023, to safeguard food safety and protect public health in Hong Kong.

     

    The measure was taken in response to the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water from the Fukushima Nuclear Power Station into the sea by the Japanese government.

     

    The HKSAR Government said it must act in a prudent manner, given that the duration and scale of the discharge are unprecedented.

     

    It also outlined that it has maintained communication with the Japanese authorities on relevant issues. This has included requesting that Japan provide information on the latest situation, as well as scientific evidence concerning the discharge, to assess whether there may be conditions for relaxing the current precautionary measures.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: How to claim temporary full expensing

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    Information you need

    If your income years end on 30 June, deductions under temporary full expensing are only available in the 2020–21, 2021–22 and 2022–23 income years.

    You claim the temporary full expensing deduction in your tax return for the relevant income year.

    To claim a temporary full expensing deduction, you must complete the extra labels included in the 2020–21, 2021–22 and 2022–23 tax returns.

    You can choose to opt out of temporary full expensing for an income year for some or all your assets and claim a deduction using other depreciation rules. However, you must notify us in your tax return that you have chosen not to apply temporary full expensing to the asset.

    You can’t change your choice and you must notify us by the day you lodge your tax return for the income year to which the choice relates.

    Why we ask

    Information given in these labels about your eligibility and your claim will:

    • help us administer the temporary full expensing measure
    • inform future services and initiatives for business.

    What we ask

    The information that you will need to give through extra labels in the tax return includes:

    • whether you’re making a choice to opt out of temporary full expensing for some or all your eligible assets
    • the number of assets you’re opting out for (if applicable)
    • the costs of assets you’re opting out for (if applicable)
    • the total amount of your temporary full expensing deduction
    • the number of assets you’re claiming temporary full expensing for
    • whether you’re using the alternative income test (corporate entities)
    • your aggregated turnover.

    Tax return label guide

    You can use the temporary full expensing tax return label guide to help identify which labels you will need to complete in your tax return. This will ensure you correctly claim or opt out of the temporary full expensing measure.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: What type of NFP is your organisation?

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    Types of NFP organisations

    For tax purposes, the main types of not-for-profits (NFPs) are:

    • charities
    • NFPs that self-assess as income tax exempt
    • taxable NFPs.

    Depending on the type of NFP, your organisation may be eligible for a range of tax concessions. Tax concessions include:

    • income tax exemption
    • fringe benefits tax and GST concessions, and
    • deductible gift recipient (DGR) status.

    NFPs (including charities) are organisations that operate for purpose and not for the profit or gain (either direct or indirect) of individual members. All profits must go back into the services the organisation provides and must not be distributed to members, even if the organisation winds up. They can include:

    • art centres
    • church schools
    • churches
    • community child care centres
    • cultural organisations
    • environmental protection organisations
    • neighbourhood associations
    • public museums and libraries
    • scholarship funds
    • scientific organisations
    • scouts
    • sports clubs
    • surf lifesaving clubs
    • traditional service clubs.

    Governing documents

    NFPs are required to maintain governing documents that demonstrate they operate on a NFP basis, including organisations that self-assess their income tax exemption. They must have and include clauses that prevent the NFP from distributing income or assets to members, both while it operates and when it winds up.

    Is your organisation a charity?

    Generally, charities are eligible for more concessions than other NFPs. Charities must be registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and endorsed by us to access charity tax concessions.

    To be a charity, your organisation must:

    • be a not-for-profit organisation
    • have a charitable purpose
    • be for the public benefit (other than where the charitable purpose is the relief of poverty).

    Examples of charities include:

    • religious groups
    • not-for-profit aged care homes
    • homeless shelters
    • disability service organisations
    • universities and colleges
    • animal welfare organisations
    • artistic or cultural groups.

    Charities can be further broken down into the following types:

    PBIs and HPCs receive wider tax concessions than other charities. Religious institutions that are registered with the ACNC for the charity subtype ‘advancing religion’ may be entitled to access additional tax concessions.

    More information on what is a charity is available on the ACNC websiteExternal Link.

    Taxable NFPs and NFPs that aren’t charities

    Some NFP organisations that aren’t charities are able to self-assess as income tax exempt if they fall into one of the 8 categories outlined in Division 50 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 (ITAA 1997). NFPs that seek to advance the common interest of their members and don’t benefit the broader community won’t generally meet the requirements for income tax exemption.

    If your organisation is eligible to self-assess, it doesn’t need to be endorsed by us to access the concession.

    NFP organisations that are not eligible to self-assess as income tax exempt are taxable, but may be entitled to special rules for calculating taxable income, lodging income tax returns and special rates of tax.

    Taxable NFP organisations may have to lodge an income tax return or notify us that one is not necessary.

    Deductible gift recipients and NFPs

    Some charities, clubs, societies and associations are also deductible gift recipients (DGRs).

    DGRs are organisations that are entitled to receive tax-deductible gifts. DGRs are either:

    • endorsed by us
    • listed by name in the tax law.

    Tax deductions for gifts are claimed by the person or organisation that makes the gift. Gifts are also referred to as donations.

    To be entitled to receive tax-deductible donations, an organisation (including a charity) must be a DGR.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Do your clients need to lodge a TPAR?

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    If you haven’t received a TPAR client list from us before, check that your email or postal address is up to date in Online services for agents. 

    Your clients may need to lodge a TPAR if they’ve made payments to contractors or sub-contractors who provide the following services on their behalf:

    • building and construction
    • cleaning
    • courier, delivery or road freight
    • information technology (IT)
    • security, surveillance or investigation.

    If any of your clients don’t need to lodge a TPAR for 2024, you can complete a non-lodgment advice (NLA) form on their behalf. If they no longer pay contractors, you can also use this form to tell us they won’t need to lodge a TPAR in the future.

    You can lodge a TPAR or NLA form for your clients using SBR-enabled softwareExternal Link or through Online services for agents, which also allows you to: 

    • view each client’s outstanding TPARs in the ‘For action’ screen, or under ‘Lodgments’ 
    • confirm previous lodgments in the history section. 

    TPARs are due 28 August each year and overdue penalties may apply.

    Find out more at ato.gov.au/TPAR.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Reports

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    Viewing reports

    You can access most pre-filled, pre-generated and on demand reports.

    To view reports available to you:

    • select Reports and forms then Reports
    • scroll to the relevant report type
      • Pre-filled reports for the financial year
      • Pre-generated reports
      • On demand reports 
    • select the relevant report from the list. For certain reports you may need to enter additional identifiers or use predictive search to generate and review the report.

    Pre-filled and pre-generated reports

    The reports provide current and historical information that’s regularly updated.

    The reports available are:

    More information about each report is available in the Help content within Online services for agents.

    On demand reports

    The on-demand reports can be generated as needed. The client information in the report will be current as at the time of request.

    ‘Download’ status will display when the report is available to be downloaded. Reports may not be available until the following day. The reports are available for 7 days from the request time. After 7 days have passed the report status will change to ‘Failed time out’ and the report will need to be re-ordered.

    The reports can be downloaded and filtered to suit your information needs.

    You can also watch our videos on:

    Client nominations report

    The client nominations report provides a list of pending client nominations relating to client-to-agent linking.

    Once this report has been requested, you’ll be able to download it in real-time.

    The report displays this information

    Heading

    Description

    Name

    Entity name

    ABN1

    Client identifier

    Expiry date

    Nomination expiry date

    Income tax lodgment status report (current year plus previous 3 years)

    When the report request has been successfully completed a download hyperlink will be displayed. You can filter the report by the following before downloading:

    • All clients
    • Not lodged
    • Lodged
    • Not necessary.
    The report displays this information

    Heading

    Description

    Tax file number

    Client identifier

    Client type

    Entity type, for example, company or superannuation fund

    Client name

    Entity name

    Substituted accounting period (SAP)

    The end month of the client’s reporting year, e.g. 31 December – Early Balancer, 31 August – Late Balancer

    Lodgment code

    Lodgment channel, e.g. digital, paper or blank if not lodged or lodgment isn’t required

    Current year status

    Lodgment status of the return, i.e. received, not received, return not necessary or lodgment status unavailable

    Due date

    Lodgment due date for the current year

    Flexible lodgment eligibility current year

    ‘Y’ if Disaster Support arrangements are applicable to the return

    Status for each of 3 previous years

    Lodgment status of each return

    Flexible lodgment eligibility for each of the 3 previous years

    ‘Y’ if Disaster Support arrangements apply to the return

    Last year lodged

    The last year an income tax lodgment was received.

    Outstanding activity statement report (current and previous 3 years)

    The Outstanding activity statement report:
    The report shows this information

    Heading

    Description

    Client name

    Entity name

    Client type

    Entity type, e.g. company or superannuation fund

    Australian business number

    Client identifier

    Client account number

    Activity statement account number

    Client account type

    Integrated client account or GST Joint Venture account

    Client account status

    Status of the account type, e.g. active

    RAN

    The registered agent number linked to the account

    TFN

    Tax file number

    WPN

    Withholder payer number if the entity isn’t eligible for an ABN and has PAYG withholding obligations

    Destination

    Client, Practice or No preferences set

    Delivery channel

    ECI (digital), Paper or myGov

    Activity statement frequency

    Annually, monthly or quarterly

    DIN

    The unique document identification number for the activity statement

    Status

    New or held

    Hold reason

    Reason activity statement has been held, if applicable.

    HDEF – deferred imports data

    HIAC – incorrect address code

    HOBG – obligation data error

    HREG – registration data error

    HUNT – untraceable

    Type

    Form type, e.g. annual GST return, business activity statement, quarterly PAYG instalment notice

    Name

    Form name, e.g. Form A, Form R

    PAYG and/or GST instalment amount

    ATO calculated instalment amount for forms R, S and T

    Period start date

    Start date of activity statement period

    Period end date

    End date of activity statement period

    Due date

    Legislative concessional or deferred lodgment due date of form

    Status

    Active or blank for each role type, i.e. for GST, PAYGI, FTC, FBT, DGST, WET, LCT

    Flexible lodgment eligibility

    ‘Y’ if Disaster Support arrangements are applicable to the form

    Account balance

    Activity statement account balance at the time of report request

    Payment reference number

    Unique payment reference number for the account type

    Email address

    Account email address

    Postal address

    Account postal address

    Reminder issue date

    Indicates the employer was issued a lodgment reminder for the activity statement and the date of issue.

    Treatment type (Finalised or Unfinalised)

    The action the ATO will take at the Expected Treatment Date if the activity statement remains outstanding.

    Finalised:

    • Amounts we have on record will be added to the client’s integrated account
    • The activity statement will be finalised in ATO systems and considered lodged.

    Unfinalised:

    • Amounts we have on record will be added to the client’s integrated account
    • The activity statement will remain outstanding. The client must lodge to complete their reporting obligation.

    Expected treatment date

    Proposed date treatment will be applied.

    ATO processed date

    Actual date treatment was applied. This will only appear when a treatment type has been applied and the activity statement remains outstanding (Treatment type = Unfinalised). Once an activity statement is finalised in ATO systems, it will no longer be displayed on this report.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Client reports

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    You can view and download the following client reports:

    • Pre-filling reports – provides income and expense related information reported to us by various organisations
      • Reports for the 2009–25 financial years will be available to download via Browser view, CSV or HTML
      • For your clients with a compromised TFN, you can access pre-fill for the 2022–25 financial years
    • Pre-generated reports – provides historical and current information reports for your client, including  
      • Client account running balance
      • Year to date interest summary
      • Year to date revenue product summary
      • Family trust elections (FTE) and interposed entity elections (IEE) (tax agents)
      • PAYG instalments
      • STP – View income statements (tax agents)
      • Shares and units records (tax agents)
      • Reported transactions

    Reports can also be accessed from Reports and forms.

    To view:

    • select a client
    • select Lodgments then Client reports
    • at Pre-filled report select the relevant year or scroll to Pre-generated reports and select the relevant report.

    Reports can be viewed in your browser and downloaded in HTML, XML or CSV. You can download multiple reports at once by opening multiple windows and tabs.

    You can also view our View and print Single Touch Payroll income statement video.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Communication history

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    What you can access

    The Communication history gives you access to view available digital correspondence we send to your clients on the following channels:

    Some communications cannot be sent digitally. These will continue to be sent by post and won’t be viewable in Communication history. We’ll continue to add more communication types to enhance this function further.

    Viewing communications history

    To view a client’s communication history, see Communication history – client summary.

    To view your communication history, from the agent home page:

    • select Communication then Communication history  
      • select or deselect All clients depending on the communications you want to view.
      • for up to 3 clients deselect All clients and type the client identifier.
      • if searching for multiple clients you can only use the same identifier type, TFN or ABN – you can use a combination of the identifier and name.
    • select Type  
    • select Time period using the drop-down menu – Last 24 hours; Last 7 days; Last 30 days; Last 5 years (client summary only); or Choose dates
    • select Channel
      • myGov
      • email
      • SMS
      • paper
      • agent digital
      • ATO online
      • ATO app
    • then Search – results will be displayed
    • select Download CSV – a new window will open with the search results as an Excel spreadsheet
    • select Print friendly version to print or save a copy.

    You can also watch our How to view client communication history video.

    Viewing and downloading statements

    You can view and download a digital activity statement notice for quarterly GST and PAYG instalments (forms R, S and T) for your clients who lodge activity statements electronically.

    To view and download a client’s digital activity statement notice from the agent home page:

    • select Communication then Communication history
    • select or deselect All Clients depending on what you want to view  
      • then select Activity statements box, and deselect Communications box
      • select the Time period and then Search – this’ll display the list of clients and their Digital Activity Statement Notice.

    Paper delivery preference

    If your client’s registered delivery preference is paper, we’ll continue to send paper instalment notices. We don’t change their delivery preferences from paper to electronic unless you have lodged electronically.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Showcases AI Home Appliance Innovations at DA Global Tech Seminars Across Five Regions

    Source: Samsung

    From March to June, Samsung Electronics hosted Digital Appliances (DA) Global Tech Seminars across five regions — the United States, Europe, Latin America, Southeast Asia and Southwest Asia — to showcase its latest innovations to audiences around the world. The seminars welcomed about 240 media representatives and tech influencers from 40 countries to experience Samsung’s latest AI home appliances firsthand and observe how the company is tailoring features to meet the unique needs of each region.1 Attendees also participated in Q&A sessions with product developers, who shared in-depth insights and explanations.
     
    Samsung Newsroom recaps each regional seminar with on-site highlights and photos.
     
     
    United States: Large-Capacity Washer-Dryers Win Praise for Practicality and Efficiency
    ▲ 2025 DA Global Tech Seminar held in the U.S.
     
    The U.S. Tech Seminar took place on March 18 at Samsung Home, a Bespoke AI experience space in SoHo, New York City — a neighborhood synonymous with art and creative living.
     
    American consumers tend to prioritize practicality and efficiency. Taking this into account, Samsung set up a dedicated experience zone for the large-capacity Bespoke AI Laundry Vented Combo, featuring a product cutaway mock-up that allowed visitors to intuitively understand the product’s core technologies and features. In addition, a live cooking demonstration showcased the AI capabilities of the Bespoke AI Oven, while the Bespoke AI Hybrid Refrigerator — which boosts energy efficiency using a semiconductor-based Peltier module — also mesmerized guests.
     
     
    Europe: Bespoke AI Jet Ultra Takes Center Stage With Industry-Leading Suction Power
    ▲ 2025 DA Global Tech Seminar held in Germany
     
    On the same day, the European Tech Seminar kicked off in Frankfurt, Germany, at World of Samsung — a global showcase designed to provide an in-depth look at Samsung’s products.
     
    A key highlight was the Bespoke AI Jet Ultra, which features the world’s most powerful suction for a cordless stick vacuum cleaner at 400W. Samsung developers gave presentations, offering insight into the vacuum cleaner’s high-performance engineering. The Bespoke AI Jet Ultra recently earned 4.5 out of 5 stars from U.K.-based review outlet Trusted Reviews and ranked first among 43 cordless vacuums tested by German IT outlet Chip.
     
     
    Latin America: SmartThings-Connected Home Appliances Growing at Twice the Global Rate
    ▲ 2025 DA Global Tech Seminar held in Mexico
     
    The Latin America Tech Seminar took place on June 3 in the vibrant metropolis of Mexico City, Mexico, drawing media and influencers from 13 countries to experience Samsung’s new lineup firsthand. Consumers in the region have shown high interest in connected living, with SmartThings-connected appliance adoption growing at more than twice the global average.2
     
    Reflecting this demand, demonstrations highlighted various features including Map View, Bixby, Routines — all easily accessible via SmartThings or the AI Home screen. Attendees also visited Sam’s House, a premium residential showroom where they engaged in hands-on interactions with Samsung’s connected products.
     
     
    Southeast Asia: AI Appliances Optimized for Hot, Humid Climates
    ▲ 2025 DA Global Tech Seminar held in Thailand
     
    On June 20, Samsung held the Southeast Asia Tech Seminar at a showroom in Bangkok, Thailand, where attendees explored the company’s latest products in settings simulating both commercial and residential spaces.
     
    Through demonstrations, attendees experienced how the Voice ID feature on the Bespoke AI Family Hub refrigerator can recognize individual voices to deliver personalized responses. They also saw how Samsung is localizing AI home appliances to better suit Southeast Asia’s hot and humid climate — for example, the 1-Way Cassette system air conditioner and the Bespoke AI Top Load Washer. “The use of AI to enhance user experience and facilitate both usage and energy savings is particularly valuable and useful,” said Kemachad Gunpai of Future Trends Thailand who attended the seminar.
     
     
    Southwest Asia: AI-Powered, Efficient Cooling Solutions in the Spotlight
    ▲ 2025 DA Global Tech Seminar held in India
     
    Held on June 25 in Gurugram, India, the Southwest Asia Tech Seminar focused on SmartThings-connected solutions and energy-efficient features tailored to local preferences.
     
    Among the demonstrations were AI appliances responding to sleep patterns detected by motion sensors, alongside cooling solutions tailored for Indian consumers. Attendees also received detailed explanations on how to track energy usage via SmartThings, a particularly relevant feature amid rising electricity costs. Samsung employees also explained how each product operates in AI Energy Mode to maximize efficiency and minimize energy consumption.
     
    “Samsung will continue to develop and expand the Global Tech Seminars in ways that reflect the unique local characteristics of each region,” said Soohyuk Ro, Vice President and Head of Tech Insight Group at Digital Appliances (DA) Business, Samsung Electronics, as the seminars came to an end. “In doing so, we will provide even deeper insights into how Samsung’s AI Home and innovative AI appliances can bring meaningful benefits to daily life for everyone.”
     
     
    1 Product names and features mentioned in this article may vary by region.
    2 Based on internal data from Samsung, aggregated via BDC (BI & Analytics), reflecting the cumulative annual ratio of Wi-Fi-connected devices.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Does your business pay contractors?

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    If your business pays contractors to deliver any of these services on your behalf, you may need to lodge a Taxable payments annual report (TPAR) online by 28 August:

    • building and construction
    • cleaning
    • courier and road freight
    • information technology (IT)
    • security, investigation or surveillance.

    TPAR help us keep things fair for all businesses by making sure contractors report all their income.

    On your TPAR, you need to record the:

    • contractor’s name, address and ABN
    • total amount you paid them for the previous financial year – including any GST and cash payments.

    You can find these details on your contractor’s invoice. It’s the same information you use to claim income tax deductions through your tax return, and GST credits through your business activity statement.

    Lodging your TPAR online is quick and easy using SBR-enabled softwareExternal Link or through Online services for business. Your registered tax professional can also lodge on your behalf.

    Penalties may apply for overdue TPAR. We’ll no longer be accepting paper lodgments after 28 August 2025, so it’s important to make sure you’re set up for online lodgment.

    Need help?

    For more information on lodging your TPAR, visit ato.gov.au/TPAR or speak to your registered tax professional. You can also watch our Essentials to strengthen your small business TPAR courseExternal Link to help you understand your TPAR obligations.

    Keep up to date

    We’ve set up tailored communication channels for small businesses. They will keep you updated on important information and changes.

    Read more articles in our Small business newsroom.

    Subscribe to our free to our monthly Small business email newsletterExternal Link.

    Get email notifications about new and updated information on our website. You can choose to receive updates that matter to you. Select the ‘Business and organisations’ category. This way, your subscription will get notifications for more Small business newsroom articles like this one.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HKSAR Government responds to media enquiries on relaxation of import control measures on Japanese food products by the Mainland

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    In response to media enquiries about the relaxation of import control measures on Japanese food products by the Mainland, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government issued the following statement today (June 30):
     
    The General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China issued on June 29, 2025 the “Notice on Conditional Resumption of the Import of Aquatic Products from Certain Regions in Japan” (the Notice), announcing that the import of some aquatic products of Japanese origin will be resumed with immediate effect, except for 10 metropolis/prefectures. According to the Notice, the import must comply with the relevant national laws and regulations, and food safety standards, and that the Japanese authority must effectively discharge its official regulatory responsibilities.
     
    In response to the discharge of the nuclear-contaminated water from Fukushima into the sea by the Japanese government, the HKSAR Government has since August 24, 2023 banned the import of aquatic products from 10 higher-risk metropolis/prefectures, including Tokyo, Fukushima, Chiba, Tochigi, Ibaraki, Gunma, Miyagi, Niigata, Nagano and Saitama, to safeguard food safety and protect public health in Hong Kong. 
     
    The duration and scale of the discharge of the nuclear-contaminated water from the Fukushima Nuclear Power Station are unprecedented. Therefore, we must act in a prudent manner.
     
    The HKSAR Government has been maintaining communication with the Japanese authority on the relevant issues, including requesting Japan to provide information on the latest development and scientific evidence concerning the discharge of the nuclear-contaminated water, to assess whether there are conditions for relaxing the current precautionary measures. The HKSAR Government will make a public announcement if there is any policy adjustment.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Canadian Citizens Charged with Smuggling 36 Firearms into Canada

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    DETROIT – Akeem Richards-Crawford, 31, Dwayne Harrison, 34, and Jannai Stewart, 35, citizens of Canada, were charged today in an indictment with conspiracy to smuggle and the smuggling of firearms and firearm magazines from the United States to Canada, announced United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr.

    Gorgon was joined in the announcement by Assistant Attorney General for National Security John A. Eisenberg, Acting Special Agent in Charge Jared Murphey, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations Detroit, Director of Field Operations Marty C. Raybon, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Chief Patrol Agent John R. Morris, U.S. Border Patrol, Special Agent in Charge James Deir, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Aaron Tambrini, Special Agent in Charge of Office of Export Enforcement’s Chicago Field Office, U.S. Department of Commerce.

    According to the indictment, Richards-Crawford and Harrison traveled from Canada to the United States in October 2023. Richards-Crawford and/or Harrison then rented a vehicle and a hotel room in the Detroit-Metropolitan area, traveled to Houston, Texas and Cincinnati, Ohio to obtain firearms, and then returned to the Eastern District of Michigan to execute their smuggling scheme. Then, early in the morning on October 26, 2023, Richards-Crawford and Harrison drove to the Algonac, Michigan area with a backpack containing 36 firearms. Harrison then boarded a jet ski on the St. Clair river and traveled to Canada with the firearms. When Harrison arrived in Canada, he approached an unmarked police vehicle believing it was there to pick him up. After realizing his mistake, Harrison dropped the backpack and fled on foot. Canadian law enforcement officers located the backpack and recovered 36 firearms, each individually wrapped in tube socks. Officers also encountered Stewart—Harrison’s actual pickup driver—nearby after Harrison texted him: “Come get me” and “Cops came.”  

    Based on the charges in the indictment, each defendant faces up to 10 years in prison for each smuggling count, and up to 5 years in prison on the conspiracy count, if convicted.

    The public is reminded that an Indictment is not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

    The case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Canada’s Ontario Provincial Police, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Douglas Salzenstein and Erin Ramamurthy, along with Chantelle Dial, Trial Attorney, Counterintelligence and Export Control Section, United States Department of Justice.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Aadhaar Enabled Payment System – Due Diligence of AePS Touchpoint Operators

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    RBI/2025-26/63
    CO.DPSS.POLC.No.S339/02-01-001/2025-2026

    June 27, 2025

    The Chairman / Managing Director / Chief Executive
    All Scheduled Commercial Banks including RRBs /
    Urban Cooperative Banks / State Cooperative Banks / District Central Cooperative Banks / National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)

    Madam / Dear Sir,

    Aadhaar Enabled Payment System – Due Diligence of AePS Touchpoint Operators

    Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS) is a payment system operated by National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI) that facilitates interoperable transactions using Aadhaar enabled authentication. AePS plays a prominent role in enabling financial inclusion.

    2. In recent times, there have been reports of frauds perpetuated through AePS due to identity theft or compromise of customer credentials. To protect bank customers from such frauds, and to maintain trust and confidence in the safety and security of the system, a need is felt to enhance the robustness of AePS. Accordingly, as announced in Statement on Developmental and Regulatory Policies dated February 08, 2024, it has been decided to issue directions for streamlining the process for onboarding of AePS touchpoint operators and strengthening fraud risk management. Detailed instructions are placed in the Annex.

    3. These directions are issued under Section 18 read with Section 10(2) of the Payment and Settlement Systems (PSS) Act, 2007 (Act 51 of 2007) and shall come into effect from January 01, 2026.

    Yours faithfully,

    (Gunveer Singh)
    Chief General Manager-in-Charge

    Encl.: Annex

    Annex

    CO.DPSS.POLC.No.S339/02-01-001/2025-2026

    June 27, 2025

    Aadhaar Enabled Payment System –
    Due Diligence of AePS Touchpoint Operators

    1. Definitions

    I. In these directions, the terms herein shall bear the meanings assigned to them below:

    1. Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS): It is a Payment System in which transactions are enabled through Aadhaar number and biometrics or OTP authentication providing financial services such as cash withdrawal, cash deposit, fund transfer, and non-financial services such as mini statement and balance enquiry. etc.

    2. Acquiring bank: The bank which onboards the AePS touchpoint operators.

    3. AePS Touchpoint: The terminal deployed by acquirer banks to facilitate AePS transactions, which shall include both mobile and fixed points.

    4. AePS Touchpoint Operator (ATO): The individual onboarded by the acquiring bank who operates the AePS touchpoint.

    II. Terms pertaining to Aadhaar, Aadhaar biometric authentication, etc., shall have the same meaning as assigned to them in the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016 (18 of 2016), and the rules made thereunder.

    III. Words and expressions used but not defined in I and II above and defined in the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007 shall have the meanings assigned to them in that Act.

    2. Due diligence of AePS Touchpoint Operators

    2.1 The acquiring bank shall carry out due diligence of all ATOs before onboarding them, adopting the same process as indicated in the Customer Due Diligence procedure for individuals, stipulated in paragraph 16 of Part-I, Chapter-VI of the Master Direction – Know Your Customer Direction, 2016 (as updated from time to time), issued by the Reserve Bank. However, if the due diligence of ATOs has already been done in their capacity as Business Correspondent / sub-agent, then the same may be adopted. The acquiring bank shall also carry out periodic updation of KYC of ATOs.

    2.2 In cases where an ATO has remained inactive, i.e. has not performed any financial / non-financial transaction for a customer for a continuous period of three months, acquiring bank shall carry out KYC of ATO before enabling him / her to transact further.

    3. Risk Management

    3.1 The acquiring bank shall monitor the activities of ATOs through their transaction monitoring systems on an ongoing basis and set operational parameters, based on business risk profile of the ATOs. Aspects such as location and type of the ATO, volume and velocity of transactions, etc. shall form part of bank’s fraud risk management framework.

    3.2 The operational parameters regarding ATOs shall be reviewed on a periodic basis, reflecting emerging fraud trends.

    3.3 The acquiring bank shall put in place adequate system level controls to ensure that any technological integrations like APIs are used only for enabling AePS operations.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed: Democrats Win Fight to Kill Irresponsible Gun Provision & Offer Legislative Fixes to Improve Public Safety & Combat Gun Violence

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    WASHINGTON, DC – Describing it as a win for commonsense and public safety, U.S. Senator Jack Reed praised the Senate Parliamentarian for correctly determining the effort to remove restrictions and regulations on silencers, short-barrel rifles and shotguns, and other guns that have been in place since the National Firearms Act (NFA) of 1934 does not fit within budget reconciliation rules, and must be removed from the Big Ugly budget bill.  Republicans may attempt to rewrite their bill to pass muster, but Reed hailed today’s ruling, which came just after midnight, as a major setback for the gun lobby and a major win for the police.
    “We fought this dangerous, controversial attempt to proliferate the use of silencers and remove a layer of background checks on firearm sales.  Congress should not be making it easier for criminals to manipulate their guns to avoid police detection and ultimately prosecution.  Senate Republicans, over the objections of law enforcement officials and communities across the country, tried to jam the public by completely removing silencers, short-barrel rifles and shotguns, and a category called “any other weapons” from the purview of the NFA.  That would have meant new owners of these deadly weapons would no longer have to register them with the ATF, or follow other strict rules surrounding the ownership of these unique weapons.  This is a win for commonsense and public safety,” said Senator Reed.
    In an effort to prevent gun violence and reduce mass-shootings with thoughtful, effective, data-driven policy solutions, Reed teamed up with U.S. Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA) this week to reintroduce a trio of gun safety bills.  These three measures would help decrease the pervasive threat of gun violence nationwide by halting three-dimensional (3D) printing and distribution of “ghost guns;” strengthening accountability measures for irresponsible gun dealers; and establishing commonsense rules to prohibit the marketing of firearms to children.
    The 3D Printed Gun Safety Act (S.2165) would prohibit the online distribution of blueprints and instructions that allow for the 3D printing of firearms. The proliferation of “ghost guns” is partly attributed to the ease of assembling firearms using 3D printed technology.  Because 3D printing allows individuals to make firearms out of plastic, these guns may be able to evade detection by metal detectors at security checkpoints.  Stopping the production of ghost guns would help keep guns out of the hands of violent criminals and black market operators; prevent traumatic incidents of gun violence; and solve more crimes.
    The Keeping Gun Dealers Honest Act (S.2155) would strengthen accountability measures for irresponsible gun dealers violating the law, and provide the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) additional resources for enforcement. This legislation would ensure that guns do not end up in the wrong hands by authorizing more frequent inspections of gun dealers, increasing penalties for serious offenses, and strengthening the U.S. Department of Justice’s authority and discretion in enforcing gun laws.  Congressman Seth Magaziner (RI-02) is the lead sponsor of companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.
    The Protecting Kids from Gun Marketing Act (S.2154) would direct the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to prescribe rules that prohibit the marketing of firearms to children.  Firearm injuries are the number one cause of death among children and adolescents in the U.S.  The gun industry consistently makes false and misleading claims about firearm safety and unfairly exploits children and teenagers through unfair and deceptive marketing practices that ultimately lead to fatal consequences.
    The non-profit Sandy Hook Promise notes: “Gun manufacturers are actively and intentionally marketing firearms to children under 18 years old with “R-rated” content on guns. And they’re doing it through ads and social media influencers — without parental knowledge or consent.”  And according to a poll commissioned by the non-profit: “82 percent of boys between 10 and 17 said they have seen at least one gun advertisement online, while social media is flooded with firearms branded with children’s cartoon characters.”
    “Every day, more than 125 people in the United States die from gun violence,” said Senator Markey. “Our communities barely have a moment to mourn before gun violence in our schools and on our streets steals the lives of more Americans and rips families apart. We can’t keep living like this, and Americans can’t keep dying like this. This National Gun Violence Awareness Month, I am reintroducing my gun safety package, which includes commonsense solutions so that not one more life is lost to this unnecessary, man-made public health crisis. I will continue fighting to end the epidemic of gun violence and save lives.”
    “These are common-sense gun safety policies that would help save lives and better protect people and police from gun violence.  We’ve got to keep weapons of war off our streets, ensure gun dealers are complying with the law, and ensure sensible limits on the marketing of guns to children, just like we do with tobacco, alcohol, or other products,” said Senator Reed, a member of the Appropriations Committee who is leading efforts to push back against the Trump Administration’s cuts to gun violence prevention efforts. 
    Earlier this year, the Trump Administration rescinded over $800 million in grants to local gun violence prevention and crime reduction programs, and upcoming budget decisions could further reduce data-driven, community-centered efforts to prevent gun violence and reduce crime.
    Rhode Island has one of the lowest rates of gun ownership in the country, yet still 52 people die annually by guns in Rhode Island, according to Everytown for Gun Safety.  The non-profit also estimates that gun violence costs Rhode Island $752.1 million each year.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Regional Operation – Arnhem Region

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force conducted a high visibility proactive operation over the week targeting the prevention of drug, alcohol and traffic offences in regional areas across the Territory.

    Between Monday 23 June and Friday 27 June, members from the Northern Substance Abuse Intelligence Desk, Dog Operations Unit, Maningrida, Gunbalanya and Jabiru police set up two Drug Detection Areas nearby Maningrida and Jabiru.

    A significant number of people were spoken to and stopped throughout the operation, with ongoing community engagement with locals to help prevent the flow of alcohol and illicit substances in regional and remote areas of the Arnhem Region.

    As a result of the operation, NT Police:

    • Arrested 2 people
    • Issued 4 drug infringement notices
    • Served 6 Notices to Appear
    • Seized 140 litre of alcohol within alcohol restricted areas
    • Seized small amounts of cannabis
    • Lawfully searched 35 peoples vehicles

    Acting Superintendent Meacham King said “This was an important operation targeting those who continue to bring alcohol and illicit substances into remote and regional areas. The collaboration between Northern Substance Abuse Intelligence Desk members, Dog operations and general duties members who work and live in remote communities continues to highlight great partnerships between police units working towards enhancing community safety.”

    Anyone with information on the supply of illicit substances into communities are urged to call police on 131 444 or make an anonymous report to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Nine Members of 36th and Penn “Big Sip” Drug Trafficking Organization Indicted on Fentanyl Conspiracy and Firearms Charges

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    MINNEAPOLIS – Nine defendants have been indicted on federal fentanyl and firearms charges for their involvement in the “Big Sip Drug Trafficking Organization (DTO)” — a violent drug trafficking organization that that sold out of at least five apartment buildings near the intersection of 36th Avenue North and North Penn Avenue in Minneapolis, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson.

    “Today marks the federal takedown of yet another dangerous criminal organization. And we will not stop,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Thompson. “The Big Sip drug trafficking organization wreaked havoc at 36th and Penn, bringing guns, violence, and deadly fentanyl to neighborhood apartment buildings. The law abiding people of Minneapolis deserve better. I am proud of the federal, state, and local team that came together to protect the neighborhood from this fentanyl trafficking organization.”

    According to court documents,Larry McGee, 42, Danielle Robberstad, 35, Maurice Montgomery, 31, Dameon Collins, 24, Marcus Lucious, 53, Romell Vann, 22, Bobby Nolan, 43, and Jeremy Lucious, 35, all are members of a drug trafficking organization (“DTO”) known as the “Big Sip DTO,” a high-volume fentanyl sales operation that sold out of at least five apartment buildings near the intersection of 36th Avenue North and North Penn Avenue in Minneapolis. The Big Sip DTO’s operation contributed to crime in the area, including shootings, homicides, and drug use, from August 2023 through June 2025. The defendants were indicted for a Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl in violation of Title 21 United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 846. Three defendants, Montgomery, Collins, and Vann, were also indicted for Possessing Firearms in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c).  Seven defendants made their initial appearnces today and are all detained pending further proceedings.  An eighth defendant will make his initial appearance tomorrow. A ninth defendant remains under seal.  The defendants all face up to life in prison.

    According to court documents, the Big Sip DTO originated in the summer of 2023, led and operated by defendants McGee and Robberstad, who are husband and wife. The Big Sip DTO was an efficient sales operation with defined roles. At the top, McGee led the organization. He obtained and stored the fentanyl product, collected proceeds, and managed other members of the organization. Robberstad was a co-leader of the organization. Robberstad maintained the apartments used for fentanyl storage and sales, interacted with customers, provided vehicles for use by the organization members, and managed other members’ sales.

    Defendants Montgomery, Collins, M. Lucious, Vann, Nolan, and J. Lucious were also members of the Big Sip DTO. These defendants all sold fentanyl on behalf of the organization to users at the apartments controlled by the Big Sip DTO. Montgomery was responsible for collecting and transporting the profits of the fentanyl sales to McGee. Montgomery, as well as Collins and Vann, all possessed firearms to protect their product and sale activities.

    “Time and again, violent drug trafficking rings try to take root in our communities, bringing with them illegal guns, violence, and fear,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Travis Riddle, of the St. Paul Field Division. “As soon as these organizations surface, ATF, along with our law enforcement partners, will be there to dismantle their operations and hold them accountable. We will not allow armed criminal groups to threaten the safety and future of the Twin Cities.”

    “This operation disrupted a violent drug trafficking network that was funneling narcotics, including deadly fentanyl, to the streets,” said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of FBI Minneapolis. “These drugs and the criminals who traffic them, bring death, sorrow, and fear to our communities.  As this coordinated operation demonstrates, those who poison and terrorize the public will face justice. The FBI and our partners will stop at nothing to pursue and apprehend these dangerous offenders and protect our communities.”

    “For too long, 36th and Penn has been a hotspot for violent crime,” said Chief O’Hara. “In 2024, there were four times as many shooting victims within a one block radius of 36th and Penn than the previous three-year average. Overall violent crime more than doubled within a one-block radius of 36th and Penn. We’ve seen the spike in violent crime and heard the concerns loud and clear from the community. Inspector Charlie Adams and the officers of the Fourth Precinct have been working closely with residents to address those concerns, while our investigators have pursued long-term strategies to bring relief. I’m incredibly grateful to the dedicated MPD personnel and to our local and federal partners who supported this investigation. I’m hopeful these arrests and charges will deliver an immediate impact and help restore a sense of safety for everyone who lives and works near 36th and Penn.”

    “These defendants are suspected of some of the worst crimes wreaking havoc on our community. I want to thank all law enforcement agencies for their work on this case including the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Intelligence Division and Violent Offender Task Force. These units provided intelligence throughout the case, carried out search warrants, targeted traffic stops, K9 operations, and much more to bring down these defendants and damage the criminal organization. We must stop those harming our neighbors, friends, and family and part of that work includes stopping the source,” said Dawanna Witt, Sheriff of Hennepin County.

    This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the ATF, FBI, Minneapolis Police Department, and the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney William C. Mattessich is prosecuting the case.

    An indictment is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Outlines Harmful Judiciary Committee Provisions Included In Republicans’ Reconciliation Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    June 27, 2025

    In speech on Senate floor, Durbin also spoke against Senator Cruz’s provision that would leave the U.S. AI industry an unregulated wild west

    WASHINGTON – In a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, spoke about some of the harmful Judiciary provisions included in Republicans’ so-called One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which aims to slash Medicaid and Medicare coverage for hardworking Americans in order to pay for significant tax breaks forbillionaires. According to the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office, 16 million Americans will lose their health insurance under Republicans’ reconciliation bill.

    Durbin began by highlighting several harmful Judiciary provisions Senate Judiciary Committee Democrats have successfully challenged and removed from the Republicans’ legislation.

    “One example: the Republicans included a provision that would have limited the ability of individuals to challenge the Trump Administration’s executive actions by potentially putting them on the hook for millions of dollars when they try to defend their constitutional rights and go to court. Fortunately, the Senate Parliamentarian stuck this provision,” Durbin said. “Now I’m proud of what we accomplished in eliminating some harmful provisions, but there is a lot of problems with the ‘Big Beautiful Bill.’ The more we learn about this bill, the worse it looks. Perhaps that is why there is a hurry to get this done before the Fourth of July and people can take a close look at the details. And I cannot stand idly by as my Senate Republican colleagues try to steamroll this bill through Congress because the President wants to do something before the Fourth of July.”

    Durbin then outlined Republicans’ wish-list of policy changes included in the reconciliation package to help carry out mass deportations of immigrants who have lived in our country for years and pose no threat to our safety.

    “These policies of mass deportation of immigrants are cruel and mean. And they go beyond any question of public safety. This bill would impose exorbitant fees that would make it impossible forvulnerable immigrants to access humanitarian relief in the United States,” Durbin said. “This includes a $1,000 fee on asylum and a $5,000 bond for parents seeking to be reunited with their child. The fees also place barriers on due process—a $900 dollar fee for an appeal in immigration court. These fees are not just unconscionable—they are unfair.”

    Durbin then discussed how the Republican bill prohibits using grant funds for community violence intervention and prevention programs, which are proven, evidence-informed strategies to reduce violence.

    “We have a gun violence epidemic in America. Currently guns are the number one cause of death for American children and teens. Let me repeat that. In America, guns are the number one cause of death for American children and teens. Not auto accidents, not cancer. Guns. We need to support and strengthen community violence intervention and prevention programs. I’ve seen them. And I’ve seen them work in the City of Chicago and all around my state of Illinois to stop violent incidents before they happen. And we need to connect people with treatment and tools that decrease the risk of future violence,” Durbin said. “Instead of supporting valuable public safety measures, the Republicans’ ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ removes taxes and regulations on certain rifles, shotguns, and gun silencers. This is just what we need in America, isn’t it? Cheaper guns. Combatting this epidemic takes ingenuity and funding—not the reversal of lifesaving gun violence prevention policies. But Republicans’ reckless reconciliation bill will jeopardize the progress that’s been made in our communities.”

    Durbin then spoke against Senator Ted Cruz’s (R-TX) provision that would leave the U.S. artificial intelligence (AI) industry an unregulated wild west. The provision would give states the choice between regulating AI or accepting federal funding under the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program. This means states would have to choose between freezing all regulations on AI for the next decade or giving up specific federal funding. In addition to preventing new state regulations, it would make many of the laws already passed by states unenforceable regarding issues such as political deepfakes, face recognition, and algorithmic discrimination.

    “We are currently living with the results of our failure to regulate Big Tech when it came to social media. Let’s not make the same mistake when it comes to AI,” said Durbin. “This provision by Senator Cruz will allow Big Tech and bad actors to prey on the lack of regulations in the AI space and develop deceptive, biased, and potentially dangerous tools that hurt ordinary Americans and diminish trust in technology… I promise to support any amendment that will remove the AI pause provision from this bill. And I hope my Republican colleagues will do the same.

    Durbin concluded, “So now is the real test for my Senate Republican colleagues. Will they stand with President Trump and provide tax breaks for millionaires and billionaires? Or will they stand with their hardworking constituents and reject this betrayal? What’s more important, a tax break for Elon Musk or the health insurance of 16 million in America? What’s more important, a tax break for the wealthiest people in America or your rural hospital? I think people know that when it comes to the quality of life, the hospital is more important and health insurance is critical. I hope for the sake of our country, four Republican Senators will have the courage to step up and choose their constituents over special interest groups.”

    Video of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.

    Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.

    Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Joins Law Enforcement Partners Announcing Results of Operation Targeting Organized Criminal Activity in the Central Valley

    Source: US State of California Department of Justice

    FRESNO – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced the results of a collaborative multiagency effort targeting criminal street gangs in the Central Valley. As part of the operation yesterday, federal, state, and local law enforcement served 54 search warrants in locations throughout the Central Valley. As part of the operation, investigators prevented nine violent crimes, made 89 felony arrests, seized firearms, ammunition, and illicit methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine. 

    “Today, we are sending a strong message that organized criminal enterprises cannot stand up to the power of good law enforcement work,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “Together with our federal, state, and local partners, we’ve made our communities safer by taking dangerous drugs and weapons off our streets and holding bad actors accountable. I thank our DOJ agents and our law enforcement partners for their dedication and tireless work to make California safer. Their efforts here not only held accountable members of organized criminal organizations, but also prevented violent crimes from occurring. Central Valley families can live and sleep with greater peace of mind as a result of this operation.”

    “Today’s announcement reflects our Office’s commitment to using every available resource in close coordination with our law enforcement partners to address the root causes of crime and hold gang members and their associates accountable,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith. “Criminal street gangs inflict real harm on our communities by trafficking deadly drugs and firearms that destroy lives and neighborhoods. I commend the outstanding work of our agents and law enforcement partners in disrupting these criminal networks and safeguarding our communities.”

    “The charges reflect the brazen violence and drug trafficking that have threatened the safety and stability of the greater Fresno area, particularly in rural communities like Huron and Coalinga,” said Special Agent in Charge Sid Patel of the FBI Sacramento Field Office. “Yesterday’s operation was the culmination of months of collaborative work to disrupt gang-driven violence and the flow of drugs and firearms into Central Valley neighborhoods. This case highlights the power of strong partnerships at every level of law enforcement, all united in the mission to dismantle violent gangs and protect the communities we serve.”

    “The collective work done by all law enforcement agencies in this operation will undoubtedly improve the safety and overall quality of life for residents in Fresno County, particularly those living in our smaller rural communities,” said Fresno County Sheriff John Zanoni.

    This investigation was a cooperative effort between the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Fresno County Multi-Agency Gang Enforcement Consortium (MAGEC), California Department of Justice (CA DOJ) Special Operations Unit, U.S Attorney’s Office, and the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office.

    In February 2024, law enforcement agencies began an investigation into a criminal street gang operating in Fresno County with a specific focus on the ongoing criminal activities of criminal street gangs in the cities of Huron, Coalinga, and San Joaquin. The investigation found, and the unsealed federal criminal complaint alleges, an extensive criminal conspiracy in which gang members and associates — some of whom were inmates in California prisons and the Fresno County Jail — orchestrated various crimes, including drug and firearms trafficking. On several occasions, members of the drug trafficking conspiracy attempted to smuggle drugs into jails on their persons or through holes they punctured in the walls. Thirty-eight suspects have been charged in a federal criminal complaint on various drug and firearms trafficking charges. 

    Assistance was provided by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Marshals Service, California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, California Highway Patrol, Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, Kings County Sheriff’s Office, Madera County Regional SWAT, and the Fresno, Clovis, Kingsburg, Coalinga, Kerman, Firebaugh, Lemoore, and Parlier police departments.

    CA DOJ’s Special Operations Unit is a collaborative investigative effort between CA DOJ and the California Highway Patrol that provides statewide enforcement for combating violent career criminals, gangs, and organized crime groups. These unique and essential teams use advanced investigative techniques and work alongside local law enforcement to enhance investigations into violent criminals and organized crime throughout the state.

    It is important to note that criminal charges must be proven in a court of law. Every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Maryland Man Convicted of Two Convenience Store Robberies and Money Laundering

    Source: US FBI

    A man who was previously convicted of robbing the Cedar Rapids Bank and Trust on Council Street in Cedar Rapids on January 3, 2024, pled guilty to additional charges today in federal court in Cedar Rapids.

    Andrew Philip Derr, age 22, from Fredrick, Maryland, was convicted of Two Convenience Store Robberies and Money Laundering.

    In a plea agreement, Derr admitted that after being discharged from the military for misconduct in 2023, he moved to Iowa City and conducted a series of robberies in the Cedar Rapids, Iowa, area.  Derr admitted that on December 27, 2023, he robbed the Casey’s General Store in Robins, Iowa, and obtained over $7,000 in cash. Derr admitted that on January 1, 2024, he robbed the Kum & Go store on Four Oaks Drive in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.  Derr was previously convicted and sentenced for robbing the Cedar Rapids Bank and Trust branch on Council Street in Cedar Rapids on January 3, 2024, in which he obtained over $16,000 in cash.  Derr admitted that after each robbery he laundered the stolen funds by making multiple deposits into his Maryland Bank account to disguise the nature, source of ownership of the funds.  Ultimately on January 3, 2024, Derr flew to Maryland, and subsequently made two deposits of robbery proceeds totaling more than $4,800.  When the United States Marshals Service tried to arrest Derr at his Iowa City, Iowa, apartment, they found a note stating, “Catch me if you can.” On January 12, 2024, Derr turned himself into Orleans Parish, Louisiana, Sheriff’s Office.  

    Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared.  Derr remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing.  Derr faces a possible maximum sentence of 60 years’ imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release following any imprisonment.  Additionally, Derr must forfeit the stolen funds from the convenience store robberies and the money that he laundered and will be required to pay restitution to the victims of his crimes.

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick J. Reinert and was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, the United States Marshals Service’s Northern Iowa Fugitive Task Force, the Cedar Rapids Police Department, Robins Police Department, Linn County Attorney’s Office, the University of Iowa Police Department and the Orleans Parish, Louisiana, Sheriff’s Office.  

    Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.

    The case file number is 24-CR-00105

    Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Smuggling Leader and Top Coordinator Will Spend Remainder of Their Lives in Prison Following Their Sentencing on Third Anniversary of Deadly Tractor-Trailer Smuggling Conspiracy

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    Two convicted human smugglers were sentenced in a federal court in San Antonio today for their prominent roles in the 2022 mass casualty human smuggling conspiracy that resulted in the deaths of 47 adults and six children.

    U.S. District Judge Orlando Garcia for the Western District of Texas sentenced Orduna-Torres to life in prison and a $250,000 fine, and Gonzales-Ortega to 83 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Both defendants were found guilty by a federal jury in March for three counts related to the transportation of aliens within the United States resulting in death, causing serious bodily injury, and placing lives in jeopardy. Following the jury’s verdict at the trial, Judge Garcia set the sentencing date, noting that it would be three years to the day from when the 53 migrants perished as a result of the defendants’ smuggling scheme.

    “These criminals will spend the rest of their lives in prison because of their cruel choice to profit off of human suffering,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Today’s sentences are a powerful message to human smugglers everywhere: we will not rest until you are behind bars.”

    “Three years to the day after these two smugglers and their co-conspirators left dozens of men, women, and children locked in a sweltering tractor-trailer to die in the Texas summer heat, they learned that they will spend the rest of their lives locked away in a federal prison,” said U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas. “We recognize the justice handed down by Judge Garcia and thank our law enforcement partners for their great work that led to today’s outcome. At the same time, we reinforce the message that these criminal organizations will not place the lives of the desperate and vulnerable above their own financial enrichment. My office remains focused on prosecuting smugglers and their networks, and ultimately eradicating transnational criminal organizations.”

    “Today’s sentences are the result of a far-reaching investigation and a tireless commitment by HSI and our law enforcement partners to dismantle the deadliest human smuggling operation in U.S. history,” said Special Agent in Charge Craig Larrabee for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) San Antonio. “This case serves as a stark reminder: human smuggling is not a service — it is a deadly criminal enterprise. HSI will pursue smugglers relentlessly, wherever they operate. No one, who participates in the smuggling of human beings, will escape the reach of justice.”

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Felipe Orduna-Torres, also known as Cholo, Chuequito/Chuekito, and Negro, 30, was a leader and organizer, and Armando Gonzales-Ortega, also known as El Don and Don Gon, 55, was a coordinator in the human smuggling organization (HSO) which illegally brought adults and children from Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico into the United States between December 2021 and June 2022.

    Court documents and evidence presented at the trial revealed that Orduna-Torres and Gonzales-Ortega worked in concert to transport and facilitate the transportation of the migrants, sharing routes, guides, stash houses, trucks, trailers, and transporters in order to consolidate costs, minimize risks, and maximize profit. The HSO maintained a variety of tractors and trailers for their smuggling operations, some of which were stored at a private parking lot in San Antonio.

    In the days leading up to June 27, 2022, Orduna-Torres and others exchanged the names of illegal aliens who would be smuggled in an upcoming tractor-trailer load. Gonzales-Ortega traveled to Laredo to meet the tractor-trailer, where at least 64 undocumented individuals, including eight children and one pregnant woman, were loaded for smuggling.

    Some of the defendants, including Orduna-Torres, were aware that the trailer’s reefer unit was malfunctioning and was not blowing any cool air to the migrants inside. When members of the organization met the tractor-trailer at the end of its approximately three-hour journey to San Antonio, they opened the doors to find 48 of the migrants were either already dead or had died on site, including the pregnant woman. Sixteen of the undocumented individuals were transported to hospitals — five of whom died.

    In addition to their sentences described above, the court also ordered Orduna-Torres to pay a $96,000 money judgment and ordered the forfeiture of the following assets: one 2008 Volvo semi-tractor; one 1995 Phoenix trailer; one 2015 Cadillac Escalade; one 2017 Ford F-350 Super Duty Truck; and $59,445.50.

    Five other defendants in this case have pleaded guilty for their involvement in the smuggling event. Riley Covarrubias-Ponce, also known as Rrili and Rilay, 32, is scheduled to be sentenced Nov. 6; Luis Alberto Rivera-Leal, 39, is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 13; Christian Martinez, 31, is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 20; and Homero Zamorano Jr., 48, is scheduled to be sentenced Dec. 4. Juan Francisco D’Luna Bilbao, 51, is indicted separately and is also scheduled to be sentenced Dec. 4.

    In a related case, Rigoberto Ramon Miranda-Orozco, 48, allegedly worked with the HSO to smuggle aliens into the United States on the same fatal journey orchestrated by Orduna-Torres and his co-conspirators. He made his initial appearance in San Antonio on March 17, seven months after he was arrested in Guatemala, and is currently scheduled for a jury trial Sept. 29.

    HSI investigated the case with the assistance of the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and has received tremendous support from Customs and Border Protection; Border Patrol; ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations; the San Antonio Police Department; the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office; the San Antonio Fire Department; the Marshall Police Department; and the Palestine Police Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eric Fuchs, Sarah Spears and Ray Gattinella for the Western District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

    These convictions are the result of the coordinated efforts of Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). JTFA, a partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has been elevated and expanded by the Attorney General with a mandate to target cartels and other transnational criminal organizations to eliminate human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, and Colombia that impact public safety and the security of our borders. JTFA currently comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the southwest border. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section; Office of Enforcement Operations; and the Office of International Affairs, among others. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 385 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 345 U.S. convictions; more than 300 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Organizer of Maryland Pawn Shop Burglary that Netted Dozens of Firearms Sentenced to 7 Years in Prison

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

                WASHINGTON – Vincent Lee Alston, 23, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 84 months in federal prison for his role in the December 2023 burglary of a Maryland pawn shop that netted dozens of firearms, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.

                Alston, aka “Vedo,” pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court Judge Amy Berman Jackson on March 6 to conspiracy to commit firearms trafficking. In addition to the prison term, Judge Berman Jackson ordered three years of supervised release.

                According to the court documents, on Dec. 13, 2023, Odumn and four co-conspirators drove in two vehicles – one a stolen Hyundai – from the District to the A&D Pawn Shop, a Federal Firearms Licensee, in Glen Burnie, Maryland.

                At the pawn shop, co-defendant Niquan Odumn used a portable saw to cut the locks on a pull-down security gate. Another co-conspirator then used a crowbar-type tool to pry open the main door. Once inside, the quintet grabbed an array of rifles, shotguns, and pistols from the shelves and display racks. They fled with at least 34 firearms.

                About a half hour after the burglary, the red Hyundai crashed on I-295 southbound at Kenilworth Avenue, NE. After the accident, surveillance footage showed Alston and two of his co-defendants abandoning the vehicle. MPD arrived at the scene and recovered eight firearms from the car.

                Investigators also recovered Alston’s damaged iPhone on the Hyundai’s driver’s seat floorboard. On it, an open GPS route displayed on the screen with a visible destination address of Alston’s residence.

                Alston was arrested at his apartment complex on Dec. 15, 2023, and was found with a Smith & Wesson, M&P 9 mm stolen during the pawn shop burglary. To date, law enforcement has recovered close to half of the stolen firearms.

                Alston is the third defendant to be sentenced in the pawn shop job.

                Niquan “Stickz” Odumn, 23, of the District, was sentenced June 23 to 48 months in prison for conspiracy to commit theft from a firearms licensee and to possession of stolen firearms.  Juwon Markel Anderson, 22, of the District, was sentenced June 20 to 84 months in prison for his role in the burglary and for his subsequent attempt to sell several of the stolen guns.

                Co-defendant Tyjuan McNeal, 27, is scheduled to be sentenced July 1 for conspiracy to commit firearms trafficking. Cy’juan Hemsley pleaded guilty on May 7, 2025, to conspiracy to commit theft from a firearms licensee and to possession of stolen firearms. Hemsley’s sentencing is pending.

                This case is being investigated by the ATF Washington Field Division and the Metropolitan Police Department, with assistance from the ATF Baltimore Field Division. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shehzad Akhtar with valuable assistance from former Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Lipes.     

    Alston’s iPhone, recovered by police from a crashed getaway car, included texts planning the pawn shop burglary.

    Image of Alston captured by a surveillance camera inside the pawn shop.

    Firearms recovered from the stolen Hyundai. 

    Additional firearms recovered from the abandoned getaway vehicle.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pipe Bomber Found Guilty of Blowing Up ATM

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    ATLANTA – Abdurrahim Jalal has been convicted of blowing up a bank automated teller machine and possessing illegal explosive devices.

    “Criminals who use dangerous explosives to commit crimes will face federal prosecution to the fullest extent of the law,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “We will not tolerate conduct that puts innocent lives at risk or threatens the safety and stability of our communities.”

    “Jalal put his own greed ahead of the safety of our community. The FBI will use every resource available to find anyone who would go to the extreme use of a bomb to illegally obtain money,” said FBI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown.

    “The use of explosives in criminal activities poses an immense threat to public safety, and we will continue to work diligently to ensure that those who engage in such acts are brought to justice,” said ATF Assistant Special Agent in Charge Beau Kolodka.

    According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: Abdurrahim Jalal was convicted of bank theft, use of an explosive to commit a felony, arson, and two counts of possession of an unregistered destructive device following a bench trial on June 23, 2025. The evidence at trial revealed that on March 29, 2023, Jalal used a pipe bomb to blow up an ATM in Decatur, Georgia. Jalal took approximately $88,000 from the vault of the machine after the explosion. Investigators identified Jalal and obtained a warrant to search his home, during which they recovered additional pipe bombs. 

    Sentencing for Abdurrahim Jalal, 54, of DeKalb County, Georgia, is scheduled for September 22, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. before U.S. District Judge Michael L. Brown.  Jalal faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years and up to 60 years of imprisonment followed by up to three years of supervised release. In determining Jalal’s actual sentence, the court will consider the United States Sentencing Guidelines, which are not binding but provide appropriate sentencing ranges for most offenders.

    This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, DeKalb County Police Department, and DeKalb County Fire Rescue Department.

    Assistant United States Attorney Dash A. Cooper is prosecuting the case.

    For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6185. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: CBSA firearms investigation in the Prairie Region leads to five-year jail sentence

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    June 27, 2025                           Winnipeg, Manitoba                               Canada Border Services Agency

    Today, Robert Ripcik, a 57-year-old resident of Beausejour, Manitoba, was sentenced to five years imprisonment for firearms-related offences along with a 10-year firearm prohibition and ordered to provide a DNA sample.  

    Ripcik, who has been in custody since his arrest on March 12, 2024, pleaded guilty in Selkirk Provincial Court to the following charges:

    • False statements, contrary to section 153(a) of the Customs Act
    • Possession of illegally imported goods, contrary to section 155 of the Customs Act
    • Unauthorized possession of firearms, contrary to section 91(1) of the Criminal Code
    • Possession of prohibited devices, contrary to section 91(2) of the Criminal Code
    • Possession of a prohibited firearm with readily accessible ammunition, contrary to section 95(1) of the Criminal Code

    The investigation into Ripcik began in April 2023 after CBSA officers at the Winnipeg Land Commercial office examined a shipment that was found to contain items related to the manufacture of firearms without serial numbers. A firearm with no serial number is also known as a “ghost gun” and is untraceable.

    In March and April 2024, CBSA officers, with the assistance of the RCMP Emergency Response Team, executed search warrants at a rural property near Chatfield, Manitoba. Among the items seized were:

    • Nine long guns with serial numbers (two prohibited firearms, seven non-restricted firearms)
    • Two Polymer 80 pistol receiver blanks for Glock pattern handguns (restricted firearms) and other handgun parts without serial numbers
    • One Ghost Gunner Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine and one 3D printer
    • One lower receiver for an AR pattern rifle without serial number (a prohibited firearm)
    • Fully automatic parts for an AR pattern rifle (prohibited devices) and other AR parts
    • Multiple overcapacity magazines (prohibited devices) and ammunition
    • One fully automatic AR-15 pattern rifle (prohibited firearm)
    • One automatic switch for a Glock handgun (prohibited device)

    The CBSA Integrated Firearm Enforcement Team (IFET), with assistance from the Winnipeg Police Service, the RCMP and Manitoba Conservation, led the complex investigation that resulted in today’s conviction.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Robert Garcia and Senator Elizabeth Warren Reintroduce ‘AMMO Act’ to Prevent Bulk Sales of Ammunition During Gun Violence Awareness Month

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Robert Garcia California (42nd District)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Robert Garcia (CA-42) and Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) reintroduced the “Ammunition Modernization and Monitoring Oversight (AMMO) Act.” The bill would restrict bulk sales of ammunition by requiring businesses to conduct background checks on buyers and would require businesses who sell ammunition to obtain the same federal license as gun dealers. Additionally, the bill would also apply the same prohibition on straw purchases for ammunition that currently exists for firearms, restricting individuals from purchasing ammunition to then sell illegally to others and requiring data sharing on ammunition sales. The bill is also co-led by Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25). The full bill text can be found here.

     “It makes absolutely no sense that anyone in this country can walk into a business and buy as much ammunition as they want, with no background check and no questions asked,” said Congressman Robert Garcia. “We need to do everything in our power to prevent mass shootings and end our nation’s gun violence epidemic. During Gun Violence Awareness Month, I’m proud to help lead a bill that closes this loophole with a commonsense fix that will save lives and protect our communities.”

    “Our government needs to step up and limit access to ammunition if we want to stop the gun violence epidemic in this country. I’m going to keep fighting to keep our communities safe from potential mass shooters,” said Senator Elizabeth Warren

    “Far too many families endure the deep emotional and financial pain that comes with losing a loved one to gun violence. The costs are felt throughout entire communities,” said Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz. “So, I’m proud to work with Congressman Robert Garcia to introduce comprehensive legislation that would close the gaping ammunition regulation loopholes in our gun safety laws. Our constituents want safer communities, and this bill will save lives.”

    “Today, any individual can purchase unlimited rounds of ammunition in a single transaction with no questions asked, not even a background check to ensure they can legally possess firearms and ammunition. This enables people to rapidly amass tens of thousands of rounds of ammunition for trafficking and other nefarious purposes, jeopardizing public safety. By limiting ammunition transactions and requiring dealers to obtain licenses and complete background checks on ammunition sales, the AMMO Act will prevent the rapid stockpiling of ammunition and ammunition trafficking. Brady thanks Congressman Garcia for introducing this legislation to address the supply-side of gun violence.” – Mark Collins, Director of Federal Policy, Brady

    “The fact that anyone can easily purchase countless rounds of ammunition without even a background check is a recipe for mass tragedy. We applaud Rep. Garcia for introducing life-saving legislation that would make ammo dealers abide by the same rules as gun dealers, which is the very definition of common sense.” –John Feinblatt, President of Everytown for Gun Safety 

    “NICJR is thrilled to support this important legislation.” – David Muhammad, Executive Director of the National Institute for Criminal Justice Reform

    Currently, there is essentially no regulation governing the sales of ammunition. Businesses are not required to possess licenses in order to sell ammo and can sell to any buyer, in any quantity, without a background check, and with no recordkeeping or data sharing. 

    The bill prohibits bulk sales of ammunition based on the type of ammo. It specifically limits individuals to 100 rounds for .50 caliber ammo, the most deadly, potent military grade, and 1000 rounds for all other ammunition within a 5-day period.

    The AMMO Act is endorsed by Everytown for Gun Safety, Brady, Newtown Action Alliance, Orange Ribbons for Jaime, Community Justice Action Fund, National Institute for Criminal Justice Reform, Voters of Tomorrow, and Sandy Hook Promise.

    Congressman Garcia is a staunch believer in common sense gun violence prevention. He first introduced the AMMO Act alongside Senator Elizabeth Warren in the 118th Congress. Since coming to Congress, Congressman Garcia has cosponsored numerous pieces of legislation to help protect our communities from gun violence, such as the Assault Weapons Ban of 2025, the Bolstering Security Against Ghost Guns Act, and the Bipartisan Background Checks Act of 2025. As former Mayor of Long Beach, he spent his time in office publicly supporting gun reform at the state and local level.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Hartford Man Sentenced to 37 Months in Federal Prison for Firearm Offense Stemming from Gang Shootout

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CHEVON GRANT, 28, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 37 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for a firearm offense stemming from a gang-related shootout.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 18, 2022, after an unidentified shooter who is suspected of being a member of a rival gang opened fire at individuals who were standing in a parking lot outside of a memorial gathering at a party venue on Main Street in Hartford, surveillance cameras at the location recorded at least nine individuals drawing firearms, some of whom returned fire.  Shot Spotter technology recorded nearly 50 shots fired within approximately 90 seconds in and around the location, and law enforcement recovered at least 31 shell casings from the scene.  Grant was present at the memorial gathering and was recorded on surveillance videos brandishing a handgun.

    Following the shooting, Hartford Police obtained a warrant for Grant’s arrest in relation to the April 18 shootout.  At the time, Grant was also subject to two additional state arrest warrants for other alleged offenses.  On May 7, 2022, officers encountered Grant in the driver’s seat of a parked vehicle, retrieved a loaded Ruger P90 .45 firearm from beneath the driver’s seat, and took Grant into custody.

    Grant’s criminal history includes state felony convictions for robbery and larceny offenses.  It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.

    On October 11, 2024, Grant pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.

    Grant is detained in state custody, and state charges against him are pending.

    This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and the Hartford Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert S. Dearington and John T. Pierpont, Jr.

    U.S. Attorney Sullivan thanked the Hartford State Attorney’s Office for its cooperation in the investigation and prosecution of this matter.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit www.justice.gov/psn.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Jury Convicts New Orleans Man of Carjacking and Being an Armed Career Criminal

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced today that a federal jury convicted 30-year-old, JOVANTE MATTHEWS (“MATTHEWS”),of committing an armed carjacking that occurred on April 3, 2024, in the 2900 block of Hollygrove Street.  The jury also found that MATTHEWS met the legal definition of being an “Armed Career Criminal.”

    MATTHEWS had been charged in a three-count federal indictment.  Count 1 charged him with Carjacking, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2119.  Count 2 charged him with brandishing a firearm during, and in relation to a crime of violence, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c). Count 3 charged him with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).  The Government also charged MATTHEWS with a sentencing enhancement for being an Armed Career Criminal, alleging that he had three previous convictions for crimes of violence.

    According to the evidence introduced at trial, on April 3, 2024, at approximately 12:00 noon,  MATTHEWS approached two contractors who were renovating a house on Hollygrove Street.  He produced a semi-automatic handgun, put it to the head of one of the victims and demanded his keys and wallet.  The victims complied and Matthews drove off in their Ford F-350 work truck, that belonged to a construction company.  After the victims reported the incident, New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) officers arrived at the scene, and obtained a neighbor’s security camera video.  The video showed the perpetrator, who wore distinctive clothing, walking up to the truck and the victims at 11:58 am, but did not capture the actual robbery.  After NOPD officers put out a bulletin on the stolen truck, two Levee Board police officers observed the truck in the Gentilly area of New Orleans.  When they attempted to stop  the vehicle, it fled at a high rate of speed.  As the truck sped through the intersection of Franklin Ave. and Mendez Street, it collided with an 18-wheel truck, causing a massive crash.  MATTHEWS was caught inside the stolen truck wearing the carjacking victim’s jacket and carrying the victim’s wallet.  Police also located a semi-automatic firearm on the driver’s side floorboard of the truck.  Officers then noted that MATTHEWS was wearing the same distinctive clothing that the perpetrator had been wearing in the pre-carjacking surveillance footage.

    To prove that MATTHEWS was an Armed Career Criminal, prosecutors proved at a sentencing hearing that MATTHEWS committed an armed carjacking on May 16, 2022 in the 500 block of South White Street.  Additionally, prosecutors proved that MATTHEWS also committed an armed carjacking on May 18, 2022 at 12:45pm in the 2600 block of Canal Blvd, and, later that day, an armed robbery in the 1000 Block of Ursuline Street.

    A review of MATTHEWS criminal history revealed that on June 3, 2023, MATTHEWS pled guilty in Criminal District Court to all three of these robbery offenses and to two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm.  Although sentenced to serve 5 years in the Louisiana Department of Corrections, MATTHEWS did not actually serve the full five years, as he was arrested on this latest carjacking on April 3, 2024.

    Based on his current  conviction, MATTHEWS now faces a statutory sentence of up to 15 years for the Carjacking offense, not less than 7 years, and up to life imprisonment for Brandishing a Firearm During a Crime of Violence.  Any sentence imposed on this count will have to be served consecutively to any other sentence.  He also faces a sentence of not less than 15 years, and up to life, for being an Armed Career Criminal.  In total, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 22 years to life in prison. He will be formally sentenced on November 5, 2025, by United States District Judge Sarah S. Vance.

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (A.T.F.), the New Orleans Police Department, and the Levee Board Police.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Maurice Landrieu of the Narcotics Unit and Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Dawkins of the Violent Crime Unit.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: ILLEGAL ALIEN PLEADS GUILTY TO POSSESSING A FIREARM WHILE ENGAGED IN DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – Oscar Cruz-Baldo, 40, of Mexico, pled guilty in federal court to possession of a firearm and ammunition by an alien unlawfully in the United States. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

    U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “The aggressive prosecution and removal of violent illegal aliens is central to the promise of President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi to Take Back America. My office is committed to working with our dedicated law enforcement partners to fulfill that promise, and as a result, we are making our communities safer.”

    Court documents reflect that Cruz-Baldo, a Mexican national, unlawfully entered the United States without inspection or authorization by an immigration officer. On February 12, 2025, he was involved in a domestic violence incident in Williston, Florida. According to the victim, Cruz-Baldo threatened to shoot her and her dog with a loaded shotgun. Levy County Deputies arrested Cruz-Baldo without further incident and located the loaded shotgun on the property.

    Cruz-Baldo faces up to fifteen years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and deportation from the United States.  

    The case involved a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Levy County Sheriff’s Office.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam Hapner.

    Sentencing is scheduled for September 30, 2025, at 1:00 pm, at the United States Courthouse in Gainesville, Florida before Chief United States District Judge Allen Winsor.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). 

    The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: DHS Announces Arrest of Serial Criminal Behind Molotov Cocktail Attack on ICE and CBP Officers in Los Angeles

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    “If you threaten or attempt to harm a law enforcement officer, we will find you and prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law.” – Secretary Noem 

    WASHINGTON – The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released the following statement on the arrest of Eric Anthony Rodriguez for attempting to attack Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers with a Molotov cocktail.

    On June 21, 2025, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) reported Rodriguez threw a Molotov cocktail at a hotel near Los Angeles International Airport where 15 ICE and 12 CBP law enforcement officers were staying.

    Rodriguez has a lengthy criminal history including convictions for assault with a deadly weapon, second degree robbery, falsifying checks, theft and vandalism. He also had an outstanding felony warrant for violating parole.

    On June 23, 2025, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) Los Angeles presented the investigation to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

    “Anthony Rodriguez is a serial criminal who will face justice for threatening the lives of federal law enforcement. On June 21, this coward threw a Molotov cocktail at a hotel in Los Angeles where 27 DHS law enforcement officers were staying. Thankfully, the attack was unsuccessful, and no one was injured,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Dangerous rhetoric by sanctuary politicians has fanned the flames of violence against federal law enforcement—and it has led to a 500% increase in assaults against ICE. Secretary Noem has been perfectly clear: Anyone who threatens the lives of federal officers will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law—and that is exactly what will happen to Rodriguez.”

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: DHS Announces Arrest of Serial Criminal Behind Molotov Cocktail Attack on ICE and CBP Officers in Los Angeles

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    “If you threaten or attempt to harm a law enforcement officer, we will find you and prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law.” – Secretary Noem 

    WASHINGTON – The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released the following statement on the arrest of Eric Anthony Rodriguez for attempting to attack Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers with a Molotov cocktail.

    On June 21, 2025, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) reported Rodriguez threw a Molotov cocktail at a hotel near Los Angeles International Airport where 15 ICE and 12 CBP law enforcement officers were staying.

    Rodriguez has a lengthy criminal history including convictions for assault with a deadly weapon, second degree robbery, falsifying checks, theft and vandalism. He also had an outstanding felony warrant for violating parole.

    On June 23, 2025, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) Los Angeles presented the investigation to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

    “Anthony Rodriguez is a serial criminal who will face justice for threatening the lives of federal law enforcement. On June 21, this coward threw a Molotov cocktail at a hotel in Los Angeles where 27 DHS law enforcement officers were staying. Thankfully, the attack was unsuccessful, and no one was injured,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Dangerous rhetoric by sanctuary politicians has fanned the flames of violence against federal law enforcement—and it has led to a 500% increase in assaults against ICE. Secretary Noem has been perfectly clear: Anyone who threatens the lives of federal officers will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law—and that is exactly what will happen to Rodriguez.”

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Philadelphia Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Gunpoint Carjacking

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Kelly Stanton, 55, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to 144 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and restitution in the amount of $12,500 by United States District Judge R. Barclay Surrick for carjacking a woman at gunpoint in January of 2023.

    Stanton was charged by indictment in March 2023 and pleaded guilty to the carjacking in October of last year.

    As detailed in court filings and admitted to by the defendant, around 11 p.m. on January 26, 2023, a woman had parked her car on the 1600 block of Cecil B. Moore Avenue in Philadelphia to pick up a pizza. After she exited the pizza shop and was getting back in her car, Stanton approached. He put a firearm to her head and said, “give me the f[***]ing keys or I’m going to shoot you.”

    After struggling with Stanton, the victim was eventually able to get her keys out of her pocket, give them to him, and run away from the car. The defendant drove off in the vehicle, heading west on Cecil B. Moore. The victim’s car has still not been recovered.

    “The victim in this case was just going about her night when Stanton ambushed and terrorized her, putting his gun to her head and threatening to shoot,” said U.S. Attorney Metcalf. “Anyone who would violently accost a stranger like this for their car, or any other possession, is a clear threat to our community. My office will continue to work with our partners on the Philadelphia Carjacking Task Force to bring these dangerous offenders to justice.”

    “Kelly Stanton’s victim was picking up a pizza when he stuck a gun to her head and demanded her car keys — he’s now facing a dozen years in federal prison,” said Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Philadelphia Field Division. “Carjacking is a violent and dangerous crime. Together with our Carjacking Task Force partners we are using ATF’s unique forensic and investigative tools to stop criminals like this from terrorizing our neighborhoods. We hope this case deters those willing to use violence in our community.”

    The case was investigated by the ATF and the Philadelphia Police Department and is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Meagan Gordon and Assistant United States Attorney Priya De Souza.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Twelve Defendants Sentenced for Drug and Firearm Offenses Related to Springfield, Vermont Drug Conspiracy

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office announced that twelves defendants have been sentenced in connection with drug and firearm charges related to a conspiracy to distribute cocaine base and fentanyl between March  and November 2022 in Springfield, Vermont. The last sentencing occurred June 16, 2025. All twelve defendants previously pleaded guilty to charges including conspiracy to distribute cocaine base and fentanyl, and unlawful possession of a firearm.

    According to court documents, the drug conspiracy involved distribution of controlled substances on Valley Street in Springfield, Vermont and elsewhere. The conspirators armed themselves with firearms in furtherance of the conspiracy. At certain times, firearms were discharged in Springfield in connection with the drug trafficking activity. Several of the conspirators were arrested on November 30, 2022 following the execution of federal search warrants on several addresses on Valley Street.

    Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss imposed the following sentences, each followed by a three-year term of federal supervised release:

    Anibal Castro, Sr.  – 108 months 
    Jonathan Castro – 98 months
    Alex Barnes – 47 months
    James Hines – 38 months 
    Jessica Auclair – 8 months
    Jennifer Armstrong – Time Served

    United States District Judge Geoffrey W. Crawford imposed the following sentences, each followed by a three-year term of federal supervised release:

    Anibal Castro, Jr.  – 72 months 
    Martine Protas – Time Served

    United States District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. imposed the following sentence, followed by a three-year term of federal supervised release:

    Kerri Yaqoob – 75 months

    United States District Judge Mary Kay Lanthier imposed the following sentence, followed by a three-year term of federal supervised release:

    Todd Amell – Time Served

    United States District Judge William K. Sessions, III imposed the following sentences:

    Michael Cotter – Time Served to be followed by 2 years of supervised release
    Derek Arie  – Time Served to be followed by 1 year of supervised release

    Acting U.S. Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory and collaborative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Vermont State Police, the Vermont Drug Task Force, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Massachusetts State Police, the Springfield Police Department, and the Windsor County State’s Attorney’s Office.

    The United States is represented in this matter by Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary Stendig.  Assistant United States Attorneys Andrew Gilman and Joe Perella offered valuable assistance.

    Anibal Castro, Sr. is represented by Natasha Sen, Esq.; Jonathan Castro is represented by Robert Behrens, Esq.; Anibal Castro, Jr. is represented by Karen Shingler, Esq.; Derek Arie is represented by Kevin Henry, Esq.; Martine Protas is represented by Michael Shklar, Esq.; Michael Cotter is represented by Mark Oettinger, Esq.; Jessica Auclair is represented by Peter Langrock, Esq.; Kerri Yaqoob is represented by Richard Bothfeld, Esq.; Alex Barnes is represented by John-Claude Charbonneau, Esq.; James Hines is represented by Stephanie Greenlees, Esq.; Todd Amell is represented by Chandler Matson, Esq.; Jennifer Armstrong is represented by Jason Sawyer, Esq.

    MIL Security OSI –